The new Gert Town Natatorium replaced the old dome-topped Gert Town Swimming Pool, which opened in 1980 and was severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The pool sat closed and abandoned for years until 2011, when the city demolished it with FEMA's approval. FEMA funding allowed for a new 19,000 sq. ft. natatorium which shares a community plaza with the new neighboring Second District Police Station. The two facilities will go hand-in-hand, offering first-responders a chance to conduct water safety and rescue training, as well as draw local youth closer to law enforcement.
Photos courtesy of R2 Photography